Disinformation – Trump Accuses Iran of Using AI to Spread False War Narratives
Disinformation – United States President Donald Trump has accused Iran of using artificial intelligence to circulate misleading information about the ongoing conflict involving American military forces. Speaking through a message posted on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump alleged that Iranian authorities were deliberately spreading manipulated content online to exaggerate their military achievements and damage the credibility of the United States.
The president also criticised several media organisations, claiming that some outlets had repeated inaccurate claims about damage to American military equipment without proper verification.
Trump Claims Iran Using AI for Propaganda
According to Trump, Iran has a long history of shaping narratives through media strategies and public relations tactics. He argued that while Iran may be weaker militarily, it has become highly skilled at distributing misleading information to international audiences.
Trump claimed that artificial intelligence has now become a key tool in Iran’s information strategy. He suggested that AI-generated images and videos are being used to present a distorted picture of battlefield events, creating the impression that Iranian forces are achieving victories that have not actually occurred.
The president stated that such tactics are intended to influence public perception and strengthen Iran’s image at a time when he believes its military position is weakening.
Claims of Fake Videos Circulating Online
Trump pointed to visuals circulating on social media that allegedly show Iranian attacks on ships at sea. He described these images as fabricated and claimed that they were designed to portray Iranian military operations as more powerful than they really are.
According to the president, some of the footage features so-called kamikaze-style boats launching attacks on vessels. He dismissed these images as fictional, stating that the vessels depicted in the clips do not exist and that the scenes were created to mislead viewers.
Trump argued that such material is being spread widely online to create the perception that Iran has carried out successful maritime strikes.
Disputing Reports of Damage to US Aircraft
The US president also rejected reports suggesting that several American refuelling aircraft had been struck or severely damaged. Trump referenced media coverage, including reporting attributed to The Wall Street Journal, which suggested that multiple US planes had been affected during recent developments.
He stated that the aircraft mentioned in those reports remain operational. According to Trump, only one plane is temporarily out of service and is expected to return to operations soon.
Trump said the reports about widespread damage to US aircraft were inaccurate and contributed to confusion surrounding the situation.
USS Abraham Lincoln Claims Dismissed
Trump further denied claims that the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln had been attacked or caught fire. Images circulating online had shown a large vessel engulfed in flames, which some posts suggested was the American carrier.
The president said these images were fabricated using artificial intelligence and insisted that the ship had neither been targeted nor damaged. He emphasised that the vessel was operating normally and had not been involved in any such incident.
Trump added that Iran would be aware of the consequences of directly attacking a major US aircraft carrier and would likely avoid such actions.
Criticism of Media Coverage
In his statement, Trump strongly criticised media outlets that reported the claims about US military damage. He argued that spreading inaccurate information about military operations could mislead the public and undermine trust.
Trump went as far as suggesting that organisations responsible for knowingly publishing false information should face serious legal consequences. He described such reporting as harmful and said it contributes to the spread of misinformation during a sensitive geopolitical situation.
Praise for FCC Review of Broadcast Licences
The president also expressed support for Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, who is reportedly examining broadcast licences of certain media organisations.
Trump said television networks receive access to public airwaves but accused some broadcasters of using those platforms to spread misleading narratives. He argued that regulatory oversight may be necessary if outlets continue to publish information that he believes is inaccurate.
The comments come amid growing global concern about the use of artificial intelligence in misinformation campaigns, particularly during conflicts where digital content can quickly shape public understanding of events.,